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Description:Wiretap Scars is the debut album from Sparta, who formed after At the Drive In took an extended sabbatical (i.e., split up) in March 2001, when world domination was within their grasp. Sparta features the three members without the Afros, sometimes cruelly and foolishly known as "the backing band". ATDI guitarist Jim Ward herWiretap Scars is the debut album from Sparta, who formed after At the Drive In took an extended sabbatical (i.e., split up) in March 2001, when world domination was within their grasp. Sparta features the three members without the Afros, sometimes cruelly and foolishly known as "the backing band". ATDI guitarist Jim Ward here takes on vocal duties, with bassist Paul Hinojos moving from bass to guitar, Tony Hajjar remaining behind the kit and bassist Matt Miller arriving from Belknap.

Musically, they've immediately found their feet. While ATDI's complex structures and penchant for chaotic crescendos remains, much of Wiretap Scars is far more subdued and melancholic than you'd expect. In fact, with their maudlin (and beautiful) keyboards, chiming guitars and warm undercurrents, the band they recall most often is the Cure, though the churning rock of "Light Burns Clear" and "Cataract" are more reminiscent of Jane's Addiction. Without losing vigour or anger, Sparta have traded some of ATDI's manic urgency in exchange for melody and, successfully finding their own voice, have made the right choice. Wiretap Scars is just the first step to stadium-filling success. --Dominic Wills